Clarithromycin — Drug Interactions, Alcohol & Pregnancy Guide
Last reviewed: · Source: US FDA drug label database · 247CanITakeWith Editorial Team
- Clarithromycin is a Macrolide antibiotic used for Chest infections.
- Alcohol: Avoid alcohol with clarithromycin — alcohol impairs your immune response and may worsen nausea and GI side effects.
- Pregnancy: Avoid clarithromycin in the first trimester — it has been associated with a small increased risk of miscarriage and birth defects. Azithromycin or amoxicillin are usually safer choices.
- This page covers 1 specific drug combination with Clarithromycin.
About Clarithromycin
Clarithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic often used in combination for H. pylori eradication. It is a potent CYP3A4 inhibitor, with many drug interactions. Bitter taste is common.
Also sold as: Klaricid, Biaxin
Clarithromycin at a glance
Clarithromycin is classed as macrolide antibiotic and is used for chest infections, h. pylori eradication, skin infections, lyme disease. It is a prescription medicine, so doses and combinations should always be agreed with your prescriber or pharmacist.
Typical adult dosing guidance: 250-500mg twice daily. Your own label or prescription always takes priority over general figures.
Interactions most often flagged
- Alcohol
- Statins
- Warfarin
- Many others via cyp3a4
Before you combine Clarithromycin with anything new
- Read the patient information leaflet for both products.
- Keep one up-to-date list of every medicine and supplement you take.
- Ask a pharmacist — it is free and takes a couple of minutes.
- Seek urgent medical help if you feel seriously unwell after combining medicines.
Clarithromycin and Alcohol
Avoid alcohol with clarithromycin — alcohol impairs your immune response and may worsen nausea and GI side effects.
Full guide →Clarithromycin in Pregnancy
Avoid clarithromycin in the first trimester — it has been associated with a small increased risk of miscarriage and birth defects. Azithromycin or amoxicillin are usually safer choices.
Full guide →Clarithromycin — Drug Combinations
More in this category: antibiotics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Clarithromycin used for?
Clarithromycin is a Macrolide antibiotic used for Chest infections, H. pylori eradication, Skin infections, Lyme disease.
What is the maximum adult dose of Clarithromycin?
The maximum adult dose is 250-500mg twice daily. This is general guidance — always follow the dose on your prescription or product label, and check with a pharmacist if you're unsure.
Can I drink alcohol with Clarithromycin?
Avoid alcohol with clarithromycin — alcohol impairs your immune response and may worsen nausea and GI side effects.
Is Clarithromycin safe to take during pregnancy?
Avoid clarithromycin in the first trimester — it has been associated with a small increased risk of miscarriage and birth defects. Azithromycin or amoxicillin are usually safer choices.
Is Clarithromycin available over the counter in the UK?
Clarithromycin is prescription-only in the UK.
What should I check before taking Clarithromycin with other medicines?
The interactions most often flagged for Clarithromycin are: alcohol, statins, warfarin, many others via CYP3A4. Tell your pharmacist or prescriber about everything you take, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, before combining it with anything new.
What are the brand names for Clarithromycin?
Clarithromycin is sold under brand names including Klaricid, Biaxin. The active ingredient is the same, so check labels carefully to avoid doubling up on it.
Do I need a prescription for Clarithromycin?
Clarithromycin is a prescription medicine, so take it exactly as your prescriber directed and ask them before changing the dose.
Not sure if Clarithromycin is safe with your other medications?
HealthLabs.com lets you check liver enzyme or kidney function levels before combining medications long-term — no GP referral needed.
Check your levels at HealthLabs →Always speak to your pharmacist or GP for personalised medical advice. Affiliate link — we may earn a commission.